Caribbean BenchTalk
Caribbean BenchTalk is a podcast for high-level discourse among judicial officers across the English-speaking Caribbean - creating a space for thoughtful dialogue on the craft of judging and the development of jurisprudence in our region. We will explore the judicial pulse of the regional bench, examining contemporary issues and complex challenges that shape the administration of justice.
Each month, we host conversations with judges, legal scholars, and regional experts on the matters most pertinent to the modern judiciary—from emerging legal technologies to the evolving standards of judicial ethics, our conversations are grounded in the realities of modern judicial work. This platform is dedicated to fostering a more connected, reflective, and informed judiciary—one that is responsive to the needs of Caribbean societies while remaining rooted in the rule of law.
Full transcripts and supplementary resources for each episode are available via our official website. We invite judicial officers and members of the legal community to continue these essential conversations within their own jurisdictions.
The views expressed in this podcast are those of the moderator, guest or individual contributors and, unless expressly stated, do not represent the official views, position, policy or decision of the Judiciary of Trinidad and Tobago, the courts, or any judicial officer.
This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, judicial guidance, or an authoritative statement of the law, nor is it intended to comment on, prejudice or influence the conduct or outcome of any matter before the courts.
If there is a contemporary issue you believe warrants regional attention, we invite you to contact the team at judicialpodcast@ttlawcourts.org.
Supported by the Judiciary of Trinidad and Tobago.
Listen on:
Episodes
Monday May 18, 2026
Monday May 18, 2026
In the first episode of Caribbean BenchTalk, host the Honourable Mr. Justice Westmin James, Judge of the Supreme Court of Trinidad and Tobago is joined by the Honourable Mr. Justice Vashiest Kokaram JA, of the Court of Appeal of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas for a thoughtful conversation on the development of Caribbean jurisprudence and the evolving role of judges across the region.
This episode explores how Caribbean courts are shaping a distinct judicial voice within the common law tradition, the influence of different final appellate courts such as the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, and the ways in which trial and appellate judges can contribute meaningfully to the growth of regional legal principles.
Justice Kokaram, JA reflects on the evolution of Caribbean law, the creative but responsible use of the common law, significant jurisprudential developments, and the importance of principled judicial courage in shaping justice for Caribbean societies.
Caribbean BenchTalk connects judicial officers across the Caribbean through conversations on judging, jurisprudence, and the administration of justice.